Laboratory Manager

Express Employment Professionals; Mokopane; On-site; ZAR 550,000 - 700,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the Oils and Proteins industry is seeking a Laboratory Manager to oversee daily operations of the lab, ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards. The successful candidate will require a degree in Chemistry or Food Technology, along with substantial management experience in a similar environment and expertise in food safety management systems.

Qualifications

• Matric or equivalent required.
• Minimum 5 years management experience in a factory environment.
• Experience with FSSC 22000 or Food Safety management systems required.

Responsibilities

• Manage daily production and staff to meet laboratory targets.
• Ensure compliance with Quality System and food safety standards.
• Train and mentor laboratory personnel.

Skills

Management experience

Problem-solving

Crisis management

Knowledge of good laboratory practices

Education

Degree/Diploma in Chemistry or Food Technology

Job description

Our client in the Oils and Proteins industry requires a suitably qualified, well-motivated, and results-driven candidate for the following vacant position.

Purpose of the Role :

To play a vital role in the overall management of the laboratory, responsible for managing daily operations, including instruments, staff, and safety.

Requirements

• Matric or equivalent
• Degree/Diploma in Chemistry or Food Technology
• At least 5 years of management experience in a similar factory environment
• Minimum 5 years’ experience with FSSC 22000 or other Food Safety management systems
• Experience in the food industry and internal audits
• Knowledge of good laboratory practices in micro and chemistry labs
• Understanding of microbiology and microbiological testing
• Knowledge of chemical analyses such as Brix, pH, acidity, and viscosity
• Ability to promote a productive work environment and adapt to change
• Adherence to safety policies and practices
• Strong problem-solving and crisis management skills

Duties

• Achieve financial targets for the laboratory
• Manage daily production and staff to meet targets
• Ensure the laboratory is well-equipped, staffed, and follows approved methodologies
• Maintain compliance with Quality System and FSSC 22000 standards
• Approve final reports and advise on corrective actions
• Ensure OHSA policies are followed
• Continuously improve productivity and efficiency
• Oversee laboratory safety and regulatory compliance
• Manage chemical inventories
• Enforce safety rules and ensure PPE use
• Conduct safety audits and staff training
• Maintain cleanliness and orderliness of the laboratory
• Ensure equipment functionality and safety training
• Train and mentor laboratory personnel
• Manage expenditures and equipment maintenance
• Ensure procedures are current and data is accurately entered
• Lead team development, coaching, and performance management
• Oversee overall laboratory operations to maintain quality and efficiency